Legal Question in Insurance Law in Georgia

Bike wreck

My 12 year old son ran into a visiting friends car today, (they were parked in front of the house in the street) on his bike. He was unable to stop. He had to have 2 stitches in his chin. They informed us they are getting quotes for the damage. Can they claim on their car insurance since he is an uninsured 'driver'. Are we required to pay for a new bumper, that they say he cracked? I really dont think we should have to fork out for this.


Asked on 7/08/09, 11:32 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Glen Ashman Ashman Law Office also dba Glen Ashman Attorney

Re: Bike wreck

I am in disbelief at your post. Do you honestly think that parents are not liable when their child damages someone else's car? Of course you are liable.

Yes, they may be able to turn it into their own insurance, but they would be stuck with a deductable for your child's negligence. And the insurer would probably turn around and successfully collect from you anyway.

Now let me tell you what you should do. First of all, report this to your homeowners or renters insurance. Do that promptly. Some such policies cover this type thing. Hopefully you have chosen such a policy. If you have a personal umbrella, and everyone should, that umbrella almost certainly covers you in this matter.

Should you not have such insurance, ask for estimates and plan to write a check.

Read more
Answered on 7/08/09, 11:43 pm
Scott Riddle Law Office of Scott B. Riddle, LLC

Re: Bike wreck

Why should someone else "fork out" money to pay for your child's conduct? Let's hope your son learns more about basic personal responsibility than his parents.

Read more
Answered on 7/09/09, 2:29 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Insurance Law questions and answers in Georgia